Relentless Advocacy for Your Defense

At Goodman Law Group, we provide relentless advocacy for your criminal defense needs. Our skilled attorneys are dedicated to fighting for your rights and achieving the best possible outcome, using a combination of extensive experience, strategic insight, and unwavering commitment.

Las Vegas DUI Lawyer

Experienced Defense Against DUI Charges in Nevada

Driving under the influence (DUI) charges in Las Vegas can be incredibly serious, leading to harsh consequences, potential jail time, and a negative mark on your record. Goodman Law Group understands the gravity of these charges and your stress when facing them. With over 30 years of experience and recognition as a board-certified attorney in criminal defense, Attorney Goodman offers unparalleled DUI defense.

Whether it's your first time being charged with DUI or you're facing a repeat offense, Goodman Law Group can help you navigate the complexities of the legal process. Attorney Goodman has over a 90% success rate and is renowned for his presence in the courtroom by peers and clients. His background in the Marine Corps and deep understanding of Nevada’s DUI laws mean that your defense is in skilled hands.

Call Goodman Law Group today at (702) 825-7854 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our DUI attorney in Las Vegas.

Why Choose Goodman Law Group?

Navigating the legal waters of a DUI charge requires experience and dedication.

Choose Goodman Law Group for the following and more:

Board Certified Trial Attorney. Attorney Goodman’s board certification recognizes his specialized knowledge and skills in criminal law.
Extensive Experience. With over 30 years in the field, Goodman Law Group knows the intricacies of DUI laws.
Marine Corps Background. Attorney Goodman’s background in the Marine Corps instills trust and respect. He brings dedication and values learned in service to every case he takes on.
10,000+ Cases Handled. We’ve seen and dealt with virtually every DUI charge over the years. This experience is invaluable in crafting your defense.
Strong Courtroom Presence. Attorney Goodman’s reputation precedes him. His presence in court has consistently drawn admiration, leading many to seek his services after witnessing his defense skills firsthand.

"Ross is a phenomenal lawyer!! He helped us out of a rough situation and we will be forever grateful. The charges were reduced greatly and we only have to complete classes following a DUI, which was 3x over the limit. He makes things happen, and he has all the connections for the best outcome. We are ecstatic over the outcome of our case. We will always recommend Ross, to anyone and everyone!"
— Allison P.

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What Is a DUI?

Driving Under the Influence (DUI) refers to operating a vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs, which affects your ability to drive safely. In Nevada, DUI is defined under NRS 484C.110.

A person violates the statute if they:

Are under the influence of intoxicating liquor or a controlled substance
Are under the combined influence of an intoxicating liquor and a controlled substance
Have a blood or breath alcohol concentration of 0.08 or more
Are physically impaired and incapable of driving safely because they used a chemical, poison, or organic solvent
Have in their system an amount of amphetamine, cocaine, cocaine metabolite, heroin, heroin metabolite, lysergic acid diethylamide, methamphetamine, or phencyclidine that meets or exceeds the legal threshold

It is unlawful for anyone to be affected, as noted above, and drive or be in physical control of a vehicle on a public highway in the state. For controlled substances, the law applies even if the person has a valid prescription and is authorized to use the drug.

The law holds commercial vehicle drivers to higher standards. They cannot operate a commercial vehicle on public streets if they have an alcohol concentration of 0.04 or more or have any amount of a prohibited substance in their system.

At Goodman Law Group, we've taken on thousands of DUI cases, each with unique facts and challenges. Our mission is to use our knowledge, experience, and assertive courtroom presence to frame a defense strategy tailored to your situation. This comprehensive approach allows us to uphold your legal rights.

Common Types of DUI Offenses in Nevada

Common types of DUI offenses include:

Vehicular Homicide. Involves deadly accidents where a driver may be suspected of driving under the influence. These cases require detailed and strategic defense planning and can carry severe consequences upon conviction.
First DUI. An initial DUI charge may result in penalties such as license suspension, fines, and mandatory educational courses, with lasting consequences even for a first offense.
Second DUI. A second conviction signals a repeated violation to the court, increasing the likelihood of higher penalties and longer license suspensions.
Third DUI. A third DUI charge is more serious, bringing potential jail time and higher fines. Retaining a seasoned attorney for these cases is critical.
Felony DUI. Multiple DUI offenses, or those involving certain aggravating factors, may be charged as felonies, especially with prior convictions, high blood alcohol levels, or severe accidents.
DUI Causing Death. Such charges are heavily penalized under Nevada law and call for a thorough legal defense.
DUI Causing Serious Bodily Injury. If you face charges related to driving under the influence that caused significant bodily harm, the stakes will be high, and solid defense is important for minimizing impact on your future.
Sealing DUI Charges. If eligible, you may petition to seal DUI records, removing them from most background checks.
Suspended License. After a DUI, you may face license suspension. We guide you on understanding duration, impacts, and possible reinstatement.

Probable Cause & DUI in Nevada

In Nevada, probable cause is a fundamental requirement for a DUI arrest. Probable cause means that law enforcement officers must have a reasonable basis to believe that a driver is operating under the influence before making an arrest.

Key aspects include:

Reasonable Suspicion: Officers must have a valid reason to stop a vehicle.
Probable Cause for Arrest: After stopping the vehicle, if the officer observes signs of impairment or conducts tests that indicate a high BAC, they must have probable cause to proceed with the DUI arrest.

For more details on probable cause requirements, refer to NRS 484C.160.

Understanding probable cause is vital, as it forms the backbone of a sustainable DUI arrest. If law enforcement fails to establish probable cause, any resulting arrest could be challenged in court. Questioning probable cause means looking at all evidence from the traffic stop to the arrest to confirm that law enforcement officials did not violate your rights.

Our detailed examination of every DUI arrest allows us to identify and contest discrepancies in the procedure, potentially leading to dismissal or reduced charges.

What Are the Penalties for a DUI in Nevada?

DUI penalties in Nevada depend on the number of prior offenses and the circumstances of your case. Relevant statutes include NRS 484C.190, NRS 484C.400, NRS 484C.410, NRS 484C.420, and NRS 484C.430.

The following are potential consequences:

First DUI Offense:

Driver’s License Revocation: 90 days, with a possible restricted license after half the period.
Prison Sentence: 2 days to 6 months, or 96 hours of community service.
Fines: $400 to $1,000.
DUI School: Required DUI program tuition.
Treatment Program: Alcohol treatment may be required depending on the offense.

Second DUI Offense (within 7 years):

Driver’s License Revocation: 1 year, no restricted license eligibility.
Prison Sentence: 10 days to 6 months, or residential confinement.
Fines: $750 to $1,000.
Community Service: 100 to 200 hours required.
Vehicle Registration Suspension: May apply, depending on the case.
Treatment Program: Up to a year of treatment or clinical supervision may be ordered.

Third or Subsequent DUI Offense (within 7 years):

Driver’s License Revocation: 3 years, possibly a restricted license (consult the DMV).
Prison Sentence: 1 to 6 years.
Fines: $2,000 to $5,000.
Vehicle Registration Suspension: May apply, case dependent.
Treatment Program: May require a minimum of 3 years of a treatment program depending on circumstances.

DUI Resulting in Death or Serious Injury:

Driver’s License Revocation: 3 years.
Prison Sentence: 2 to 20 years.
Fines: $2,000 to $5,000.

The seriousness of DUI penalties highlights the need for immediate and informed legal support. Nevada's structured penalties for DUI offenses reflect the state's strict stance on impaired driving. It's imperative to approach these charges with a solid defense, recognizing the full extent of these penalties and seeking to minimize the impact on your future.

Call Goodman Law Group today at (702) 825-7854 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our DUI lawyer in Las Vegas!

What to Do After an Arrest For a DUI?

If you’ve been arrested for a DUI, it’s important to act carefully and follow the right steps to protect your legal rights and minimize potential consequences. First, make sure to remain calm and do not make any statements to law enforcement beyond identifying yourself. Anything you say can be used against you in court, so make sure to exercise your right to keep silent and request an attorney before answering questions about the incident.

After a DUI arrest, you will typically be taken to the police station for booking, which may include fingerprinting, photographing, and testing for alcohol or drugs if it wasn’t already done at the scene. You will also be given a notice of your rights and may be asked to submit to additional chemical testing. In most cases, you will have a hearing to determine whether your driver’s license should be suspended or restricted while your case is pending. It’s important to respond promptly to all notifications from the DMV or court to avoid automatic penalties.

Securing an experienced DUI attorney as soon as possible is crucial. A lawyer can review the circumstances of your arrest, evaluate the accuracy and legality of any breath, blood, or field sobriety tests, and determine whether law enforcement followed proper procedures. Violations of your rights, improper testing, or procedural errors can sometimes lead to charges being reduced or dismissed.

How Can a DUI Attorney Help Me?

A DUI attorney is your legal ally while you face the serious consequences of impaired driving charges.

Their insights and experience can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case, and here's how they can help you:

Legal Acumen. Nevada DUI laws can be complex and differ between jurisdictions. A DUI attorney stays up to date with regulations, procedures, and factors affecting DUI cases in your area.
Case Evaluation. Your attorney reviews the details of your case, including your arrest, evidence, and law enforcement conduct. Such scrutiny can uncover weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, helping achieve fairer results.
Tailored Defense Strategy. Every DUI case brings unique circumstances. A DUI attorney crafts a legal strategy based on your case’s specific facts, such as challenging sobriety test results or contesting the traffic stop.
Protection of Rights. Your attorney stands up for your rights to remain silent, to have legal counsel, and to a fair trial, working to prevent self-incrimination and guide you through the process.
Negotiation Skills. A DUI attorney can work with the prosecutor for reduced charges, plea agreements, or alternative sentencing, aiming to reduce the impact of DUI charges on your life.
Effective Courtroom Representation. If your case goes to trial, your Las Vegas DUI attorney is your voice in the courtroom, ready to present supporting arguments, cross-examine witnesses, and protect your interests during the process.
Driver's License Protection. DUI convictions often result in license suspension. Your attorney can guide you through administrative and legal steps to help protect your driving privileges.
Mitigation and Sentencing. If convicted, your attorney may present factors to seek a fair and reasonable sentence, using references and relevant facts to support your position.
Comprehensive Legal Knowledge. DUI attorneys understand the science behind DUI testing and can challenge the accuracy of tests like breathalyzers and blood tests.

A DUI attorney is your advocate, offering a voice of reason during a turbulent time. With their guidance, you can navigate the complexities of DUI laws, securing a defense that considers all aspects of the charge. Their intricate knowledge of Nevada's DUI regulations allows them to tailor a strategy aligned with your needs, aiming for a favorable result.

Understanding Nevada’s Implied Consent Laws

Nevada’s implied consent laws mean that by driving on the roads of Nevada, motorists automatically consent to submit to tests that check for alcohol or drugs if they are lawfully arrested for a DUI. Such testing can include breath, blood, or urine tests.

Refusal to comply with these tests can result in automatic driver’s license suspension and other penalties independent of the outcome of a DUI trial. The law treats refusal as an admission of guilt, effectively leading to civil penalties. These immediate penalties are imposed at an administrative hearing over which an Administrative Law Judge presides.

Moreover, these laws impact how evidence is gathered against you in a DUI case. Understanding your rights and obligations under these laws is crucial, as refusal to cooperate can complicate your legal standing. In the event of refusal, seek legal counsel to mitigate consequences.

At Goodman Law Group, we keep you well-informed about these intricate aspects of Nevada’s DUI laws to protect your interests.

How Nevada’s Unique Geography Influences DUI Cases

Nevada's unique geographic and cultural landscape also influences DUI offenses and prosecution. Las Vegas, being a popular tourist destination, often sees cases involving visitors unfamiliar with Nevada's stringent DUI laws.

The vibrant nightlife and 24/7 availability of alcohol in casinos, clubs, and bars can lead to an increased likelihood of impaired driving. Additionally, events like conventions, festivals, and major sporting events bring a surge of visitors, heightening DUI enforcement efforts during peak periods. Law enforcement agencies frequently deploy saturation patrols, DUI blitzes, and checkpoints to monitor high-traffic areas, especially near the Las Vegas Strip. The city's unique mix of tourism and nightlife requires a heightened awareness of Nevada's DUI regulations for visitors and residents.

Understanding the peculiarities of local law enforcement practices can be an asset in defending DUI charges effectively.

Moreover, local jurisdictions could have differing protocols for handling DUI offenses, making local knowledge valuable. Defending a DUI in Nevada, particularly in a bustling city like Las Vegas, requires understanding state laws and the local judicial nuances.

Our firm's extensive local experience in navigating these challenges gives clients an advantage in structuring their defense strategies.

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Frequently Asked Questions About DUI Defense in Las Vegas

What Are the Costs Associated with a DUI Conviction in Las Vegas?

The costs of a DUI conviction in Las Vegas can extend beyond fines and jail time, impacting your financial stability and future. Fines for a first offense can range from $400 to $1,000, with additional costs for DUI school or treatment programs. Legal fees and court costs add more financial burden, not to mention potential increases in insurance premiums. These costs can be significant, affecting your budget for years. Mitigating them through effective legal representation can be critical in managing these financial implications.
How Long Does a DUI Stay on Your Record in Nevada?

In Nevada, a DUI conviction will remain on your criminal record indefinitely. This means it could impact your employment prospects and personal life long term. However, after seven years, you may be eligible to request the sealing of the record, which effectively hides the conviction from public view. This process requires navigating complex legal procedures but can offer a clean slate for those looking to move past the error of their DUI. Expert legal guidance can assist in ensuring this process is handled effectively and efficiently.
Can a DUI Charge Be Reduced or Dismissed?

Reducing or dismissing a DUI charge in Las Vegas involves a deep analysis of the circumstances surrounding the arrest. Procedural errors, test inaccuracies, or lack of probable cause can be grounds for negotiating lesser charges or dismissal. An attorney's role is to highlight these deficiencies to leverage a favorable outcome. While specific results cannot be guaranteed, focusing on maximizing legal defenses is key in negotiating reductions or dismissals. Consulting a professional attorney should be your first step in examining the viability of these options.
What Happens If I Refuse a Breathalyzer in Las Vegas?

Refusing a breathalyzer in Las Vegas invokes Nevada's implied consent laws, resulting in automatic license suspension for at least a year. The refusal is treated separately from the DUI and can complicate your defense strategy. Legal challenges to such refusals can focus on improper arrest procedures or violations of rights. Immediate legal consultation is advisable to explore defenses against the consequences of refusal. Refusing may not evade DUI consequences but can complicate the overall legal ramifications.
Is a DUI in Nevada a Felony or Misdemeanor?

A DUI in Nevada is typically a misdemeanor for first and second offenses within seven years. However, if it involves serious injury or death, or if it’s your third offense within seven years, the charge escalates to a felony, attracting severe penalties. The implications of felony charges are significant, affecting your civil liberties and future opportunities. Understanding these distinctions helps in structuring an effective defense, aiming to mitigate or reduce the severity of charges where possible.

Trusted Expertise, Unmatched Dedication

Choosing Goodman Law Group means partnering with a team that combines trusted expertise with unwavering dedication. Our deep knowledge of the legal system and commitment to your case ensure that you receive the highest level of representation and the best possible outcome.

Comprehensive Criminal Defense
Whether facing charges for DUI, violent crimes, or white-collar offenses, Goodman Law Group provides aggressive representation with a focus on achieving the best possible outcomes for clients in both state and federal courts.
Local Expertise, National Impact
As a lifelong Las Vegas resident, Ross C. Goodman’s deep knowledge of local laws, courts, and legal professionals gives his clients a distinct advantage, while his nationally recognized legal skills elevate his reputation beyond the state.

Proven Track Record
With nearly 30 years of experience and a history of high-profile victories, Ross C. Goodman is a top-tier criminal defense attorney, known for securing dismissals, "Not Guilty" verdicts, and favorable resolutions.
Personalized, Successful Defense
Every case at Goodman Law Group is handled with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring personalized strategies that have resulted in reduced sentences, acquittals, and alternative legal resolutions for thousands of clients.

Defend Against Charges with a DUI Lawyer in Las Vegas

Effective defense strategies can significantly impact the outcome of a DUI case.

Goodman Law Group employs various legal tactics to challenge DUI charges, including:

Challenge the Traffic Stop. We examine whether law enforcement legally stopped your vehicle with reasonable suspicion.
Question the BAC Test Results. Our review includes assessing the accuracy and process of breathalyzer or blood test results. Any errors in testing or calibration can be grounds to question the evidence.
Assess Field Sobriety Tests. We review how law enforcement administered and interpreted field sobriety tests, which often include subjective evaluation.
Examine Arrest Procedures. Analyzing the legality of your arrest and whether officers observed your rights is critical to building a strong defense.
Negotiate with Prosecutors. We approach prosecutors to pursue opportunities for reduced charges or alternative sentencing if appropriate.

Building a strong defense starts at the moment of arrest. Our approach extends beyond challenging evidence to scrutinize police conduct and procedural missteps. We aim to dismantle the prosecution's claims and pursue a favorable outcome by conducting a comprehensive investigation and leveraging insights from similar cases.

When Las Vegas Procedures Differ from Other Locations

Las Vegas law enforcement and prosecutors follow certain local procedures that can affect your DUI case. These may include how evidence is collected at checkpoints, the emphasis on field sobriety test observations, or early filing of paperwork with the Clark County District Attorney. Our knowledge of how these practices differ from neighboring jurisdictions helps us anticipate steps in your defense and address challenges unique to the Las Vegas area.

Building a strong defense begins the moment of your arrest. We look beyond the tests and reports to focus on every step the police took and consider if each action followed legal standards. This careful process helps us find opportunities to challenge the prosecution’s claims or push for favorable resolution at each stage.

The Nevada DUI Court Process

The DUI court process in Nevada involves several stages, each playing a crucial role in determining the case's outcome.

Arrest. The process generally begins when law enforcement stops and detains someone suspected of DUI. Arrests follow traffic stops, checkpoints, or accident investigations.
Booking and Chemical Testing. Once arrested, individuals are booked and usually required to take chemical tests to measure blood alcohol content. Nevada’s implied consent law means drivers must comply, or they risk further consequences.
Initial Appearance. The accused attends an initial court session where the judge reviews charges and sets bail.
Arraignment. At arraignment, the court presents formal charges and asks for a plea. The court may also schedule additional hearings at this stage.
Pre-Trial Hearings. Multiple pre-trial hearings allow both sides to present evidence, file motions, and discuss plea deals.
Trial. If the case moves to trial, the defense and prosecution present arguments, and the judge or jury decides the verdict.
Sentencing. After a conviction, the judge determines applicable penalties, such as fines, license suspension, substance education, or jail time.

Navigating the DUI court process in Nevada can be complex, and seeking legal representation from a DUI attorney is crucial to understanding one's rights, building a strong defense, and potentially mitigating the consequences.

Understanding court procedures helps in building a strategic defense. From the moment of arrest to potential sentencing, each step is critical and holds opportunities to tip the scale in your favor. Proper legal representation ensures that every aspect of the case is thoroughly vetted, from evidence gathering to plea negotiations, focusing on reducing potential penalties.

Contact Our DUI Defense Attorney in Las Vegas Today

DUI charges can be daunting, but you're not alone with the Goodman Law Group by your side. We believe in providing tailored legal services to every client. We carefully approach each case to explore every avenue.

Attorney Ross Goodman has over 30 years of experience. He approaches each case with commitment and attention to detail that help put clients in the best position possible.

Contact Goodman Law Group or call us at (702) 825-7854 today to schedule a meeting with our Las Vegas DUI lawyer!

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A Reputation of Excellence

At Goodman Law Group, your satisfaction is our priority! See for yourself what our clients have to say about working with us.

"This is the kind of attorney you don’t just recommend — you insist people hire. Worth every penny."
Ross Goodman is, without question, in a league of his own. From our very first meeting, it was clear this wasn’t just another defense attorney — Ross is the real deal. He knows the system, commands respect in the courtroom, and he knows how to get results when it matters the most.

To be completely honest, we didn’t hire Ross right away — and that was our first mistake. We initially went with another well-known law firm, thinking we were getting a specific high-profile attorney. But when it came time for court, instead of the person we were promised, they sent in a junior lawyer we’d never met. I couldn’t even get straight answers to basic questions, and it quickly became clear that we were just another file on someone’s desk.

That experience made me double down and insist that we bring Ross Goodman onto the case. I had already met with him in person and had done my homework. After spending an entire afternoon watching interviews, YouTube clips, and reading about his background (and his incredible family — yes, I’m now also a fan of his dad, Oscar Goodman), I knew this was the attorney we had to have. Thankfully, we made the switch — and everything changed.

He took a very serious situation and turned it into a manageable, strategic resolution. He negotiated a plea that avoided a felony conviction — something we honestly didn’t think was possible. That outcome didn’t happen by chance — it happened because he knows how to talk to prosecutors, how to protect his clients when the stakes are high, and how to be the very best at what he does.

He’s not the cheapest attorney in town — and that’s exactly the point. If you’re gambling with your freedom, your record, or your future, you want someone with real experience and a proven reputation. You don’t hire Ross to hope for a good outcome , you hire him because you want the best possible one.

This is the kind of attorney you don’t just recommend — you insist people hire.
Worth every penny.

- Meghan B.
"His professional and knowledge of Las Vegas law is impeccable."
Ross Goodman has got to be the best attorney in the Las Vegas area. When we needed a lawyer to represent our son, Ross appeared in court on his behalf and had his DUI reduced to reckless driving. His professional and knowledge of Las Vegas law is impeccable. I would recommend Ross to anyone who want excellent representation.

- Avis A.
"You don't find lawyers like him every day."
If someone wants competence, experience, straightforwardness, and results along with a great personality then they need Ross Goodman. He's the only attorney I would recommend. The quality I received with Ross cannot be overstated. He's the best!

- Rianna W.
"He will fight for your rights and get you the best results."
My family and I are very grateful we hired Mr. Ross Goodman to represent me. We can’t thank Mr. Ross enough for what he did.

- Gilbert P.
"I switched and hired Mr. Goodman and could not have been more impressed with the outcome. You do get what you pay for."
I met with Mr. Goodman who answered all my questions and knew his stuff. I decided to hire a less expensive attorney but was not happy with the progress ended up being a waste of money with the other guy. I switched and hired Mr. Goodman and could not have been more impressed with the outcome. You do get what you pay for. I should have gone with my gut reaction at the beginning that would have saved me anxiety, time, and money. Don’t make the same mistake.

- Tim H.
"Don't hesitate, hire him immediately!"
I had met with Ross in his office and within three seconds I knew I had to hire him. His right hand Tiffanie was professional and friendly and kept me informed of all court dates, which Ross appeared twice on my behalf without me even having to show up. I

- Candice R.
"Above and beyond my expectations."
Being faced with such a difficult situation was overwhelming, but your strategic approach and guidance provided both comfort and hope. Your commitment to my daughters case went above and beyond my expectations, and I am truly thankful for all the hard work you put into securing my daughters release from jail.
Your legal acumen and advocacy skills are truly remarkable, and I feel fortunate to have had you and Ross by my daughters side throughout this ordeal. Your guidance not only helped my daughter regain her freedom but also provided me with a better understanding of the legal process.

- Crystal L.
"We are extremely grateful!"
Ross Goodman and his team took care of us during a very uncertain time and helped to guide us through the entire legal process. We greatly appreciate how his team, especially Tiffanie, communicated with us and went above and beyond on our behalf. We are extremely grateful! Thank you Ross!

- Susan L.

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